Of the greatest wonders of the ancient world, few were as magnificent as the city of Persepolis, and far fewer still stand. Intricate details preserved at the site rival some of the wonders of Egypt. Founded by Darius the Great in 520 BC, Persepolis is a living legacy of the mighty Persian empire. Designed by architects from all over the expansive empire to his palace at Persepolis, the carved walls depict African kings and Asian merchants, all converging into the empire's great capital.

Iran is magnificent and misunderstood. Warped global perspectives of the Persian people has deterred travelers for years, but it's one of the oldest, grandest and most interesting parts of the world. You absolutely should visit.